Living in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island nation in the Indian Ocean southeast of India, with around 21.7 million people. Tropical coasts, rainforests, dry plains and the central highlands shape the landscape. The west and south receive heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, while the north and east are usually drier; temperatures are noticeably cooler in the mountains. In Colombo and other cities, many people live in densely built-up neighborhoods and commute by bus, train, motorcycle or tuk-tuk. In rural areas, daily life is shaped by rice cultivation, tea plantations, fishing and small businesses. Family life, markets, religious festivals and shared meals are important in many places, but vary depending on the region and the size of the city.